Transforming the System

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Require Equitable Parole and Probation

Moreover, numerous studies show that parole and probation are applied in a discriminatory manner. Blacks are frequently given harsher conditions and longer terms, and are less likely to be offered parole than similarly situated whites. Racial and ethnic disparities in parole and probation should be immediately addressed to reduce current inequities. The following policies should be adopted to ensure that these disparities do not persist.

State and local governments should pass legislation that:

Eliminates incarceration for parole and probation violations and instead uses sanctions that are reflective of the violation, such as community service for missed meetings, or drug treatment for failure to comply with mandatory drug testing;

Relies upon community-based supervision where there are repeat violations of parole and/or parole restrictions;

Prohibits long-term incarceration for minor parole violations;

“Encourage[s] the use of intermediate sanctions facilities, [such as halfway houses] rather than prisons, for these parolees when they commit technical violations rather than new crimes;”

Adopts a risk-need-responsivity analysis approach, which focuses on an individual’s risk of committing a crime, to favor release over an approach that is reliant upon incarceration;

Requires the collection, reporting, and publication of data disaggregated by race, reli

Evaluates individual parole and probation officers by the percentage of unwarranted racial disparities in their supervision tasks.

It is in all of our best interest to ensure that those who have been caught up in the criminal justice system are able to become successful members of their communities and stay out of prison. It’s therefore important that parole and probation practices are fair and consistent, and that courts use these practices as tools to allow accused persons to safely remain in their communities.

Flashcards

Below are flashcards for you to use the next time you have a media interview, need to write an opinion piece, or just need some ideas as you think through your messaging strategy.

Promoting Fair Parole Practices

value

It is in all of our best interest to ensure that those who have been caught up in the criminal justice system are able to become successful members of their communities and stay out of prison. It’s therefore important that parole and probation practices are fair and consistent, and that courts use these practices as tools to allow accused persons to safely remain in their communities.

problem

Instead, parole and probation are becoming tools for funneling people back into full custody. Revocation of parole for minor technical violations is the leading cause of people returning to prison. Individuals are routinely sent back for infractions such as missing a meeting or failing to get a job.

solution

State and local governments should eliminate incarceration for parole and probation violations and instead use sanctions that are reflective of the violation, such as comunity service for missed meetings.

action

Tell your local policymakers that you support parole and probation reform that replaces prison with sensible alternatives like community service.